Sydney Reviews

Jenolan Thunder is an inspiring musical pilgrimage using the power of Japanese Taiko style choreography amidst the disciplined, yet powerful frenzy of Taiko drumming.

The Grand Arch, at Jenolan Caves, was transformed by The Rhythm Hunters into a cross genre experience of dance, martial arts and music. Acting as a celebration of cross-cultural influences from Japan to Indigenous Indonesia The Rhythm Hunters have created Australasian Physical Drumming.

The majesty of the Grand Arch became an ancient space providing an indigenous and primal connection to earth via the medium of music. The arrival of didge player, Ian Hakker from the rocky ledge above heralding primordial echoes, predates the performer’s entrance from the road, as they appear like a swarm of cicadas, stopping periodically to drum.

Beginning with Jungle Funk from The Rhythm Hunters new cd, Cicada Factory and using Indonesian frame drums and Balinese gongs as the basis, we were transported by the high energy and groove of a style similar to that of Afro/Cuban percussion. The performance was wild, yet particular. The sheer physicality and masculinity of the male drummers collaborates strongly with the empowered female presence of Jody Lorrae, who encompasses both matriarch and warrior woman.

The transition from high energy and funk, initiated by the piece Talingen a blend of Indonesian Harp and Shakuhachi flute offers an ethereal quality that is haunting, poetic and sweet. Performers positioned on the rock face of the cave wall added to the stillness and ambience of the music.  

The second half began with Warrahmatoulah, also from the new Cicada Factory cd, an Indonesian prayer sung by the multi talented Artistic Director, Rendra Freestone and accompanied by dancer, Alfira O’Sullivan. The song originally from Aceh, Indonesia acts as an offering and prayer to promote good will and religious peace. The reverence and sentiment within the music created a hypnotic and sacred mood.

The Rhythm Hunters easily shone and inspired showcasing their skills as musicians with a distinct and finely honed musical craftsmanship. We were taken on an unusual and captivating musical journey that was mesmerising. The intensity of the drums combined with the poetics of dance and martial arts was irresistible. Fluidity of movement and melody offered a magical fusion.

The energy of the performers and music constantly surprises, often, emphatically crazy.  Suddenly melts into exotica, heralding a unique but harmonic blend of melodies. Jenolan Thunder presents as unusually stylistic shift for The Rhythm Hunters whose previous performances are usually quite raw in comparison.  

This performance however, has solidified a youthful group of performers, combined with the presence of didge player, Ian Hakker and saxophonist, Lee Hardisty who double the resonance with time honoured sounds, entirely appropriate for the ancient strength of The Grand Arch.

The Rhythm Hunters are clearly a favourite with the audience. Many of who have travelled long distances to be there to enjoy this unique and wonderful musical experience.


The Rhythm Hunters
Jenolan Thunder

Venue: Jenolan Caves Grand Arch
Date: Nov 22 2007
Time: 7:30pm
Tickets: Adult $45, Junior $25, Family (2 adults + 3 juniors) $120
Bookings: 1300 76 33 11
Visit: www.jenolancaves.org.au